How do I Fix the Feeler Arm on my LG Ice Maker? The Ultimate Guide

Is the feeler arm on your LG refrigerator ice maker broken or stuck? Don‘t worry, with this detailed 2500+ word guide, I‘ll walk you step-by-step through how to diagnose and replace the feeler arm so you can get back to making ice cubes in no time!

Table of Contents

• What is the Ice Maker Feeler Arm and What Does it Do?
• Step-by-Step Instructions for Troubleshooting the Feel Arm
• How to Locate and Identify the Problematic Feeler Arm
• Removing and Replacing the Defective LG Ice Maker Arm
• Resetting and Testing Ice Production
• Other Common Ice Maker Problems and Solutions
• Understanding How the Feeler Arm Mechanism Works
• Reasons Why the Ice Maker Arm Can Get Stuck
• Finding the Correct Replacement Part for Your Model
• Ensuring Proper Installation and Maintenance
• Conclusion

What is the Ice Maker Feeler Arm and What Does it Do?

Before we dive into repairs, let‘s quickly go over what the feeler arm is and how it functions within your refrigerator‘s ice maker assembly.

The feeler arm, also referred to as the ice level or probe arm, is a metal or plastic lever that extends out from the ice maker and into the ice collection bin. It‘s a small but crucial component.

Here are the key roles this arm serves:

• Monitors the ice level in the bin
• Detects when the bin is full of ice cubes
• Triggers the ice maker shutdown when full
• Allows ice production to resume when ice level drops

It does this through the use of a connected thermostat and electrical contacts. As the bin fills, the rising ice pushes the arm up, which opens the contacts and cuts power to the ice maker. This shuts it off until more ice is needed.

So in summary, the feeler arm provides feedback to regulate ice output and prevent overflows or leaks.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Troubleshooting the Feel Arm

Before taking apart the ice maker to replace the feeler arm, it‘s smart to first troubleshoot and isolate the issue through less intensive steps.

Here is a 6 step troubleshooting process I recommend:

Step 1: Visually inspect the feeler arm for any visible damage. Look for cracks, breaks, bending, or obstructions that could stop the arm from moving up and down freely.

Step 2: Check the electrical wiring connections to the feeler arm. Make sure no loose wiring is disrupting the electrical signal.

Step 3: Manually test the function by moving the feeler arm up and down. The ice maker should turn off/on when repositioned.

Step 4: Clear any ice, frost, or debris buildup within the ice maker chamber that could be obstructing the arm.

Step 5: Ensure the water supply line is free of kinks and delivering water. Shut off valves should be open.

Step 6: Clean the evaporator coils with a brush. Dirty coils can prevent proper ice maker cooling.

If you‘ve addressed all other issues and the feeler arm still fails to work, replacement is likely the correct solution.

How to Locate and Identify the Problematic Feeler Arm

Once you‘ve confirmed that the feeler arm itself is the problem, the next step is finding it within the ice maker housing.

On LG fridge models, here are the telltale signs to locate the feeler arm:

• A silver metal or gray plastic lever arm extending out from the ice chamber
• Located above the ice collection bin or tray
• Connected to a wire clip or fastener leading back into the unit
• Moves up and down to signal ice level

Use your refrigerator model‘s service manual to find the precise location of the arm. Depending on your particular LG unit, the arm may be situated on the side, rear, or top.

If you‘re still not sure, contact LG support with your model number and they can provide pointers to identifying the part.

Removing and Replacing the Defective LG Ice Maker Arm

Once you‘ve located the malfunctioning feeler arm, follow these steps closely to remove it and install a new replacement:

Removing the Old Part:

1. Unplug refrigerator or turn off power first as a safety precaution.
2. Disconnect any wiring clips or connectors attached to the defective feeler arm.
3. Make note of where the wiring attaches for reinstallation.
4. Remove outer housing of ice maker if needed to access the arm.
5. Locate the retaining clip, screw, or fastener that secures the arm.
6. Use a screwdriver to gently pry and detach the retaining clip from the arm.
7. Remove the defective feeler arm from the ice maker housing.
8. Set aside the broken arm to discard later.
9. Clean out ice debris and wipe down the area.

Installing the New Replacement Arm:

1. Verify new arm is the correct replacement part for your refrigerator model.
2. Slide the new arm into position aligned with the retaining clip holes.
3. Reinstall retaining clip securely to fasten the arm.
4. Reconnect wiring connectors to the terminals on the new arm.
5. Confirm that the arm can move up and down freely.
6. Replace ice maker housing and screws.
7. Restore power supply and plug fridge back in.

Getting the right replacement part matched to your LG model is crucial, which leads to the next section…

Finding the Correct Replacement Part for Your Model

To find the right replacement feeler arm, start by locating the model number on your LG refrigerator‘s service tag or label.

With this model number, contact LG customer support online or by phone. Give them the model number and describe the issue. Their parts team can use this info to ensure you get an exact replacement arm match for your particular ice maker.

Some key details to have ready for LG:

• Your refrigerator model number
• The part name or existing part number
• Measurements of the old feeler arm
• Ice maker assembly part number

You can also seek out replacement arms from aftermarket parts sellers. But going through LG directly results in the best quality and fit.

Resetting and Testing Ice Production

The final step after swapping in the new feeler arm is letting the ice maker cycle fully to confirm normal operation.

Here is how to reset the ice maker with the new part installed:

1. Allow the ice mold/tray to refill with water and freeze a fresh batch of ice cubes.
2. Once frozen, manually lower the feeler arm to the "down" position.
3. New ice cubes should eject into the collection bin when complete.
4. Raise and lower feeler arm to initiate another round of ice making.
5. Arm should trigger ice maker shut off when shifted upwards.
6. Check for any leaks and confirm proper ice cube size/shape.

The new feeler arm should restore functioning and allow your LG ice maker to resume service!

Other Common Ice Maker Problems and Solutions

While a broken feeler arm is one of the most frequent issues with LG ice makers, there are other problems that can arise as well.

Here are some other common troubleshooting scenarios:

Ice maker not making any ice:

• Clogged water filters need replacing
• Shut off valve closed or water line kinked
• Faulty water inlet valve not filling mold
• Defective control board

Ice maker jammed or stuck mid-cycle:

• Clear out obstructing ice in chamber
• Ensure ejector arms can move freely
• Replace worn-out ejector mechanism

Ice cubes too small or have low clarity:

• Check water fill level and fill time
• Replace underperforming ice mold/tray
• Try replacing water filter cartridges

Water leaking from ice maker:

• Clear any clogs in drain tube
• Adjust fill tube positioning
• Inspect door gaskets and seals for leaks

Loud noises from ice maker:

• Worn out motor may need replacing
• Tighten loose fasteners/components
• Stabilize with rubber grommets/dampers

Understanding How the Feeler Arm Mechanism Works

Now that you‘ve fixed your ice maker, let‘s quickly review how the feeler arm mechanisms actually work:

The key component that controls the feeler arm is a thermostat attached to electrical contacts.

When ice freezes completely, the thermostat sends a signal that closes the contacts. This completes the circuit.

The closed circuit allows power to flow into the ejector mechanism which has:

• Heating element – Warms when powered on
• Ejector bars – Connected to the ice tray; expand when heated

The heating element warms the ejector bars which flex outward and pop the ice into the bin.

As the bin fills, the rising ice cubes push up the feeler arm. This opens the contacts, cutting power to stop ice production.

Understanding the internal mechanics helps troubleshoot future issues!

Reasons Why the Ice Maker Arm Can Get Stuck

While feeler arms are generally durable, there are a few things that commonly cause them to jam or malfunction.

Here are the most likely culprits of an ice maker arm getting stuck:

• Blocked motion – Ice, frost, or debris prevent the arm from shifting up/down.
• Broken thermostat – Can‘t send electrical signal to ejector mechanism.
• Faulty contacts – Worn out contacts won‘t open/close circuit properly.
• Melted ice refreezing – Can freeze the arm in place if ice melts then re-solidifies.
• Mechanical issues – Broken spring or loose joints can freeze the arm.
• Missing water – No water flow results in ice locking arm in down position.

Careful inspection of the arm mechanisms and connections can reveal the root cause. Replacement of the part is required if it‘s non-functional.

Ensuring Proper Installation and Maintenance

To keep your newly replaced feeler arm working properly for a long time, be diligent about:

• Confirming all electrical connectors are firmly inserted
• Checking retaining clips and fasteners are tight
• Making sure the water supply line is free of kinks or twists
• Ensuring the water shutoff valve is in the open position
• Clearing any clogs in the drain tube
• Regularly cleaning the ice chamber, bin, and evaporator coils

Proper installation combined with ongoing maintenance helps prevent future issues and extend the life of your replacement part.

Conclusion

I hope this guide served as a comprehensive resource for troubleshooting, replacing, and maintaining the feeler arm in your LG refrigerator‘s ice maker assembly. While it may seem daunting, just follow the steps and you can have it fixed yourself and back to making ice in no time. As always, don‘t hesitate to reach out to LG support if you need assistance ordering the correct replacement part for your model. Here‘s to colder ice cubes and frostier beverages!